Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Cypher Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔐
Add to dictionary

cypher

[ˈsaɪfər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

secret code

A cypher is a method of transforming text in order to keep its meaning hidden. It often involves substituting letters or altering the way information is presented so that it can only be understood by someone who knows the key to the cypher. Historically, cyphers have been used in various forms of communication to secure confidential information. They are essential in both espionage and data protection in modern times.

Synonyms

cipher, code, encryption, secret writing.

Examples of usage

  • The message was written using a complex cypher.
  • She used a cypher to encode her diary entries.
  • During the war, soldiers sent messages in cyphers to avoid detection.
Context #2 | Verb

to encode

To cypher means to encode a message using a cypher method. This involves taking plain text and applying a systematic alteration to it so that it becomes unreadable to anyone who does not possess the necessary knowledge to decode it. This action has been crucial in historical contexts for securing military communications and protecting sensitive information.

Synonyms

encode, encrypt, scramble.

Examples of usage

  • He learned how to cypher messages during his training.
  • The team decided to cypher their communications for privacy.
  • It is essential to cypher important data when sending it online.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Julius Caesar is known for creating the Caesar Cipher, a simple encryption technique that shifts letters by a set number.
  • During World War II, cipher machines like the Enigma were crucial for encoding military communications.
  • The famous 1920s character Sherlock Holmes often used various ciphers to solve mysteries, highlighting the intrigue of secret codes.

Pop Culture

  • In modern films, cyphers often show up in espionage stories where spies use them to send hidden messages.
  • Video games like 'Assassin's Creed' and 'Halo' incorporate cyphers as puzzles to enhance storytelling and engagement.
  • The TV show 'Lost' featured a mysterious cypher that connected various plot points, capturing viewers' intrigue.

Technology

  • Today, cyphers play a key role in computer security, protecting information from unauthorized access.
  • Encryption algorithms used in Wi-Fi networks and online banking are modern forms of cyphers safeguarding personal data.
  • The field of cryptography studies cyphers and aims to create stronger methods to keep information secure.

Psychology

  • Research shows that when people decode cyphers, it can improve cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities.
  • Playing with cyphers can enhance creativity, as individuals think outside the box to figure out hidden meanings.
  • Studying ancient cyphers can also spark curiosity about history and the way humans communicated through time.

Origin of 'cypher'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cypher' comes from the Arabic word 'sifr' meaning 'zero' or 'empty', which later indicated codes and numbers.
  • In medieval times, 'cypher' was associated with the use of numbers in mathematics, evolving to mean coded language.
  • In the 16th century, the term began to refer to any secret code, not just those using numbers.

The word 'cypher' originates from the Arabic word 'sifr', which means 'zero' or 'nothing'. This term eventually passed into Latin as 'cifra', meaning 'a numeral'. In medieval times, the concept of cyphering expanded from its mathematical roots to encompass the art of secret writing, especially in warfare and diplomacy. The transition of the word into different languages and its evolution captured the growing need for securing communication in various cultures. By the 17th century, the spelling 'cypher' became popular in English, and the term became synonymous with secret codes and methods of encryption.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,939, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.